Description
A robust, comforting soup featuring tender beef, chewy barley, and vegetables in a rich broth. This slow-simmered classic is perfect for chilly days, delivering deep flavors and satisfying textures in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Stew Beef (cubed, preferably grass-fed for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup Pearl Barley (make sure it’s rinsed for better texture)
- 6 cups Beef Broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought recommended)
- 2 Carrots (diced, brightens the soup and adds sweetness)
- 2 Stalks of Celery (chopped, for that classic soup flavor)
- 1 Onion (chopped, adds depth of flavor)
- 3 Cloves Garlic (minced, because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 Bay Leaf (for a hint of earthiness)
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (adds richness and enhances the color)
- Salt and Pepper to Taste (always a must for seasoning)
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish, brightens up the dish)
Instructions
Brown Beef: Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high. Season beef with salt/pepper. Brown in batches (5 mins per batch). Remove.,Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, celery. Cook 5 mins until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook 3 mins more.,Simmer: Return beef to pot. Add barley, broth, water, tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and paprika. Bring to boil.,Slow Cook: Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 1.5-2 hours until beef and barley are tender.,Finish: Discard bay leaves. Adjust seasoning. Stir in parsley before serving.
Notes
Time-Saver: Use instant pot (35 mins high pressure with quick release),Barley Tip: Soak 30 mins for faster cooking if needed,Freezes Well: Store in portions for up to 3 months,Vegetable Swap: Add parsnips or turnips for variety,Thickening: Mash some barley against pot wall for creamier texture
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg